Motherhood in Hollywood

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UrbanSitter Shares Tips For Finding Child Care On Their New App Aug 13, 2018

Show notes

I invited the CEO and Co-Founder of UrbanSitter to share her thoughts with me. Lynn Perkins created UrbanSitter as a quick, effective tool for parents to search for child care online. As a mom herself, she tells me friends were always asking her for recommendations on a sitter and that sparked the idea to start her own website. Cut to several years later and UrbanSitter is one of the most used child care websites out there. Lynn says that's because they offer 3 critical components to child care: recommendations from people you trust, performance data and quality care providers.

Mindy Cohn on ‘The Facts of Life’ Reboot and Her Charity Work Aug 06, 2018

Show notes

My podcast episodes aren't usually very newsworthy or timely but this week is an exception. Just days after I recorded my interview with Mindy Cohn, news broke about the very thing we discussed-a Facts of Life reboot or reunion. It wasn't the main reason why I wanted to interview her but it came up in our conversation and what she told me was surprising.

UP TV’s Amy Winter on Creating Positive Programming For Families Aug 01, 2018

Show notes

UP TV is hoping to change that. My guest this week is the Executive Vice President and General Manager of UP TV, Amy Winter. She says she's rebranded the network to gear programming toward families without sacrificing quality. I met her recently at a premiere party for UP Tv's newest show, Our Wedding Story. Grab the tissue when you watch because it's a very moving shows where couples share their love story. No explosions. No swears. No sex. Just beautiful story telling. Producers Nick and Colin from Blue Kite Cinema say they're goal is to create a cinematic documentary rather than a reality show, and I think they've done exactly that. Every shot is beautiful and the editing moves the story along so you feel like you've been on the whole journey with each couple.

Tara Strong on ‘Teen Titans Go! To The Movies’ and Being the J-Lo of Comic-Con Jul 23, 2018

Show notes

You've probably been listening to Tara Strong for years and never knew it. This mama is a powerhouse in the voice over world, voicing characters like Twilight Sparkle in My Little Pony, Harley Quinn in DC Super Hero Girls and Raven in Teen Titans Go! To The Movies. I've been wanting to interview her for years and it finally happened! Tara says she knew she wanted to be an actress and create funny voices when she was just 4-years-old. Before I had Channing I used to think people who knew what they wanted to do when they were that young were just making it up for a good story. But Channing most definitely talks about being an artist all the time and I have no doubt she will do something in the arts. What a wonderful gift to know your calling at a young age! Chan is also a huge fan of My Little Pony, and honestly, all of the shows Tara voices. So to get a chance to hear her story and talk to her about her career was a treat. She also tells me about being a mom of 2 boys and what kinds of animation they're into. My favorite part of this interview was talking to Tara about her fans. She calls herself the J-Lo of Comic-Con because she's bombarded at SDCC. As you can imagine, fans from all over the world dress up as her characters. So it only makes sense they know who she is and would recognize her at an event like this. I also had to ask her about the Bronies, the adult group of My Little Pony fans, because I saw a documentary a few years ago that was very enlightening. You should watch it! Tara is the voice of Raven in Teen Titans Go! and that is Channing's favorite character on that show. I resisted the urge to have to her say something to Chan as Raven because I'm trying to be profesh. But I really wish I would have! Teen Titans Go! To The Movies is so much fun and my girl loved it. Actually, we all did. We went to a sneak peek of TTG a few weeks ago and had a blast. The movie follows the Titans as they try to get into the movie biz. It seems to the Teens that all the major superheroes out there are starring in their own movies—everyone but them! But de facto leader Robin is determined to remedy the situation and be seen as a star instead of a sidekick. If only they could get the hottest Hollywood film director to notice them. With a few madcap ideas and a song in their heart, the Teen Titans head to Tinsel Town, certain to pull off their dream. But when the group is radically misdirected by a seriously Super-Villain and his maniacal plan to take over the Earth, things really go awry. The team finds their friendship and their fighting spirit failing, putting the very fate of the Teen Titans themselves on the line! The movie is silly, and never takes itself too seriously. There is a lot in there for adults too. So many references to the DC world and Marvel will keep parents engaged and lots of fart jokes to keep the kids entertained. You guys know I'm not a movie reviewer but if I was I would give this film the thumbs up for parents of superhero fans. Chan lol'd a lot and so did we. Tara tells me she has a lot of fun playing Raven as well. The cast of Tara Strong (Raven), Scott Menville (Robin), Greg Cipes (Beast Boy), Hynden Walch (Starfire) and Khary Patyon (Cyborg) have been together since 2013 when the TV series started. In Teen Titans Go! To The Movies they are joined by Will Arnett as the voice of Slade, Kristen Bell as Jade, and Nicholas Cage as Superman. Arnett also Executive Produces this film and you can't miss his signature sense of humor as the Deadpool-like character, Slade. Your kids will love it and if you like superheros and the sound of your child's laughter, then you will too. To keep up with Tara, follow her on Twitter at @TaraStrong. Teen Titans Go! To The Movies opens everywhere July 27th! Don't forget to subscribe to MIH podcast on iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss the next episode!

Why You Should Turn Off Your TV Long Enough To Go To Comic-Con Jul 16, 2018

Show notes

Heather and Heather at SDCC 2016 at the SyFy Magicians party. The last week or so in Southern California, the heat has been scorching, over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, high humidity and relatively uncomfortable outdoors. Which means, it is a great time to catch up on some great television. It used to be that summer was all “guilty pleasure” tv. In the past, summer had been referred to as the “dumping ground” for television. It was a time when networks would either air re-runs, or “dump” a show that they felt was something that was a “hard sell” to both audiences and advertisers. However, in the last 5 years or so, with the rise of premium cable and streaming services, and a push by all mediums to produce original content, summer is no longer the barren desert wasteland it once was. As we head into the week of San Diego Comic Con (July 19-22nd) I have been watching and re-watching some of my favorite shows, here’s a little “tv primer”: Claws on TNT- I love this show, Niecy Nash is the brilliant (and wonderfully dramatic) anchor to this wacky, weird and wonderful show about a group of women who run a nail salon while getting entangled in the mafia dealings of Palmetto, Florida. It is such a great show about strong women struggling to keep their bond of sisterhood stronger than the world of drugs, sex and violence that surrounds (and threatens to drown) them. This show is set in a colorful, off-the-wall world that is sexy, seedy, and unapologetic. The cast is so fun, but Carrie Preston is one of my favorites. Glow on Netflix- This show just brings me so much joy. I just finished Season 2, it is very binge-able, most episodes are right around 30 minutes. The 80’s music, hair and costumes are so fantastic, and the cast is awesome. The pacing and balance between dramatic and comedic is perfect, and it so wonderfully celebrates female empowerment and sisterhood, and doesn’t shy away from the complexities of female relationships. The Magicians on SyFy- This show is seriously one of my favorite things being done in the fantasy genre. The ensemble cast is so great, and they get a great roster of guest stars. This last season(season 3) stand-outs were Marlee Matlin and Candis Cayne. The Good Place on NBC- One of the smartest and snarkiest shows on tv, now is the time to catch up on this amazing series before it comes back for season 3 on NBC this fall. Come for the writing, and stay for the fantastic cast. Ted Danson (just nominated for an Emmy!) is an “otherworldly” being who has constructed a “perfect” afterlife for humans like Eleanor (Kristen Bell) to dwell in for eternity. However Eleanor (as we see) was not a good person in her life on earth and realizes she has ended up in the Good Place by clerical error. Comedy ensues. This show is a brilliant and hilarious study in ethics, social conforms, and what truly makes us human. The biggest summer celebration of television (and everything pop-culture) is San Diego Comic Con, with reunions of TV shows past, sneak peeks at upcoming shows, and celebrations of current television. There are giant displays that are replicas of sets and characters for photo ops, immersive role-playing fan experiences, meet-and-greet with cast and crew. It is a tv fan’s paradise (especially a fan of sci-fi, fantasy driven and superhero genres), and I am so excited to be going for a few days next week. There is (as usual) an insane amount of panels and activities to cover in the 4 days, but I’d thought I’d highlight a few TV centric things I’m looking forward to: Current shows panels- The ultimate reward for a loyal fandom is to bring the cast in for a panel at Comic-Con. Most times these panels include a sneak peek into the next season (often times they have begun shooting it) or a blooper reel from last season and a Q&A w/ the cast. There are so many, it’s impossible to go to them all, but here are some standouts: Thursday, July 19th- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Brooklyn Nine-nine, Better Call Saul Friday, July 20th- The Walking Dead, The Venture Brothers, Archer, Preacher, Bob’s Burgers, Star Trek:Discovery Saturday, July 21st- Black Lightning, The Good Place, The Orville, The Magicians, The Gifted, Man in High Castle, Family Guy, Arrow and The Flash Sunday, July 22nd- Supernatural and Riverdale New Show peeks- SDCC is where studios love to give audiences a first look and gage reaction- this can really build (or kill) momentum for a new series. A few I’m interested in: Tell Me a Story on CBS All Access- A reimagining of the world's most beloved fairy tales as dark and twisted psychological thrillers in modern-day New York City. Executive producer Kevin Williamson and stars Paul Wesley and James Wolk. Castle Rock on Hulu - of J. J. Abrams and Stephen King's psychological-horror series w/ Sissy Spacek, Melanie Lynskey and Bill Skaarsgard (yep, Pennywise from It). Listen to an interview Heather Brooker did with the assistant director on MIH podcast! Nightflyers on SyFy- A space-thriller from George R.R. Martin (Game of Thrones in space? Yesssss! Interactive exhibits- Studios go for broke with displays and exhibits, the visuals are big and bright, and fan-interaction is at a premium. Every year, these experiences get bigger and better. FX will be doing “FXhibition” featuring Legion, American Horror Story, Mayans M.C. and Archer. We will literally be stepping into The Good Place from NBC, getting caught in the espionage with Jack Ryan for Amazon, go camping with Adult Swim, and visit the town of Castle Rock for Hulu. Celebrating the off-camera professionals. The world of television lives and breathes with everyone behind the camera. There are panels that cover every aspect of TV production, from pitching your project, locations scouting, costume design, marketing your project. If you have any interest in creating and producing your own content, there are wonderful opportunities to learn and make contacts with working professionals (and experts in their field) at Comic-con. Parties, celebrities and Meet-ups! The social aspect of Comic-Con is all around, with networks like Warner Brothers and NBC sponsoring parties and cocktail hours, Entertainment Weekly, IMDB and SYFY hosting social soirees that offer up the potential to see (and maybe chat with) celebrities from your favorite shows, or network with professionals and fellow fans. As a television addict, I am looking forward to spending a few days completely immersed in a giant celebration of on-screen story-telling and fandom. San Diego Comic-Con is one week away, and we are getting super excited for the wonderful wild and wacky trip that is “The Con”. Follow me on Instagram at @hnharper8 to see what we find!

Tips For Acting With Confidence From Acting Coach Shannon Sturges Jul 10, 2018

Show notes

My guest this week is actress and acting coach Shannon Sturges from Speiser/Sturges Acting Studio. Shannon has appeared on several soap operas like Passions and Port Charles as well as shows like The Mentalist. She's left the day-to-day hustle of auditioning behind and now focuses her talents on helping other actors. We share some real talk about shaking the audition jitters, what George Clooney means when he says "Just deliver the pizza!", and how actors can have more realistic expectations in this business.

How To Get Your Kids Cast In Reality, Game, and Talent Shows Jun 25, 2018

Show notes

Have you ever watched a game show and thought, I could be on that show! Or seen Little Big Shots and wondered where they found such incredible kids? My guest this week is Raphael Dorval who works in casting for reality shows, game shows and some of the hottest talent shows on TV. And he has some advice for parents who want to get their kids noticed. Raphael says parents who think their kids are talented and want to catch the eye of a show like Ellen or America's Got Talent need to just start filming their kids doing the cool thing they do. It's that simple. He says too many parents think they need to have perfect lighting or big production value before they get their kids on tape but realistically you don't need much. Just start filming your tiny dancer, brilliant gymnast or terrific tap dancer and you're already ahead of the game. He also suggests parents get involved in Facebook groups for child actors or talented kids. Casting directors are always looking in those groups and places like YouTube and Instagram for the next big star. In this episode, Raphael reveals exactly where he finds talented kids and what they need to get started in showing off their talent. You can also join the private Motherhood in Hollywood Facebook group where I post casting notices from time to time. We also talked about the snobbery that comes with game show casting. He talks about the assumptions people make when it comes to game shows. But who hasn't day dreamed about being on The Price Is Right? I've tried twice to be on that show and never made it. He points out that being on game shows are an easy, fun way to make a little money. He knows some people worry about the stigma it could ruin future career opportunities or that Hollywood won't take you seriously if you've been a contestant on a game show. But look at people like Aaron Paul and John Hamm who were on game shows and went on to have very successful careers. Bottom line, getting cast on a talent show or game show could be a fun way for your family to make money to help pay for acting supplies like headshots and classes. So why not give it a try? Raphael and his team are always looking for new talent and interesting contestants. To apply to be on shows like LET’S MAKE A DEAL, THE PRICE IS RIGHT, FAMILY FEUD, MATCH GAME, or TO TELL THE TRUTH visit Fremantlecasting.com and fill out the online application. Or if you think you have a talented kid, film their talent and send it to Raphaeldorvalcasting@gmail.com. Then if you hit it big remember who sent ya! Make sure you follow Raphael on Instagram at @RaphaelDorval and break legs breaking into the biz!

Diablo Cody & Jason Reitman Talk Tully, Muses, And Hollywood Remakes Jun 20, 2018

Show notes

I recently caught up with Academy Award-winning writer Diablo Cody and Academy Award-nominated director Jason Reitman to talk about their new film Tully. They shared with me everything from the inspiration for the film, to what they think about the trend of Hollywood remakes and re-imaginings happening right now.

Sasha Alexander On ‘Bernard and Huey’, Independent Films And Roles For Women Jun 04, 2018

Show notes

You've no doubt seen Sasha Alexander on your TV screen sometime in the last few decades. She's been a working actress for many years on shows like Dawson's Creek, Rizzoli and Isles, and Shameless. But she's also a big supporter of independent film and tells me her latest project is a great example of what a true independent film looks like in today's fast-paced super-sized movie world. Bernard and Huey was written by legendary, Pulitzer Prize and Oscar® winner Jules Feiffer (Carnal Knowledge, Popeye) and stars Bernard (Jim Rash) and Huey (David Koechner). As teens, Bernard is the more introverted, less socially successful of the two, and Huey is the outgoing ladies’ man. Years later, the two reconnect, to find that the tables have turned and they become entwined in one-another’s lives in bizarre ways. Alexander, along with Mae Whitman, Nancy Travis and Bellamy Young add a much-needed female presence to the film. Alexander tells me the women stepped into what felt like a very masculine story and added their own fierce perspective to their parts. After all the film was initially written back in the 80's and was supposed to be about characters from the 50's. Alexander tells me the script underwent several revisions to make it what it is today. Sasha Alexander, Dan Mirvish and Bellamy Young We also talked about the need for more truly independent films at the box office so moviegoers don't get stuck in a superhero rut. And she tells me how wonderfully written roles for women are being done on the small screen. Alexander says she's being more particular about which roles she takes these days because her family needs are a priority. She's been a series regular on several series so she's not eager to jump back into one right now. But she says she is eager to continue to playing rich characters and working with wonderful people like Jim Rash. Almost all of her scenes were with Rash and she says he was an amazing actor to work with. If nothing else, she says you should watch Bernard and Huey just to see Jim Rash shirtless. Curious? Bernard and Huey opens in select theaters and several digital platforms on June 8th. And you can follow Sasha on Twitter at @SashaAlexander.

Lisa Henson On Her Father’s Legacy & Doozers on Hulu May 23, 2018

Show notes

Lisa Henson is no stranger to creating shows kids love. But despite her father's huge name and company, she didn't start out in children's programming. She started making movies at Columbia and Warner Brothers and after decades of working in mainstream adult content, found herself back home at The Henson Company. Lisa is the CEO and President of The Henson Company and works alongside her brother Brian who is the Chairman. They produce new shows like Dot,Splash and Bubbles, Sid The Science Kid and a new show Fraggle Rock fans will love called Doozers. Remember those loveable green guys that were always working hard to build things, right as the Fraggles destroyed them. Well the Doozers are back and building up a storm. The new CG animated series for preschoolers incorporates STEAM lessons - Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics - while also having fun. The animated preschool series Doozers focuses on four Doozers kids, a team of best friends who live in Doozer Creek, a community that is a wonderful blending of the fantastical, modern, and eco-friendly. Henson tells me that one of their main goals with children's programming is to incorporate teaching moments whether its' STEAM lessons like in Doozers, or digital responsibility like their show Dot from author Randi Zuckerberg. In fact, The Henson Company has been creating a lot of things that kids love. There's been no shortage of ideas and Lisa has been executive producer of all of them. She shares with me that although they love their new shows, they also pay close attention to what she calls their "legacy" shows and how they create content around those. One of my favorite shows grown up was Fraggle Rock. And I was thrilled to find out there is a Fraggle Rock movie in the works! It will star Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Lisa also shares with me what it was like as a busy movie executive while balancing motherhood. She felt like because she waited later in life to have kids, she had established her career and could make more time for the kind of needs that come along with kids. And of course we also talked about her father's legacy, what kind of puppets she played with as a kid and where she sees The Henson Company going in the future. Lisa Henson with her father Jim Henson. Courtesy @The Jim Henson Company She also shared with me what show she has the most affinity for because it was her idea, and her father made it for her. What a legacy indeed. Watch for the new season of Dooers on May 25th on Hulu. Executive Produced by Lisa Henson Make sure you check out the Henson Family Hub to keep up with all their new shows and ways to interact with The Henson Company. And follow them on Instagram @hensonfamilyhub. And watch the new season of Doozers May 25th on Hulu!

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